Module 1: Introduction

We have discussed a variety of assessments for ELLs, including those that inform
us about placement, programmatic assessment, and ongoing language development. But, what about testing in our classroom? How do we assess our ELLs on the content that we teach if there is a language gap? How do we find out what our ELLs know and can produce in a way that is equitable, yet rigorous, and still meets our grade-level standards? These are the types of questions that teacher are facing increasingly as the numbers of English learning students continues to rise. Here’s what we know: language (any language) is a code that serves as an avenue to access concepts or ideas. We also know that it takes time — sometimes years — to become proficient in a new language. So, any test that we give to our students that is communicated through language is, in essence, a test of language as well. This week, we will discuss responsive assessment techniques that allow teachers to access what students know in ways that are relevant and aligned with
individual learning styles.